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| Students adapt to new CBT exam systems. |
Nigeria’s education ministry has ordered WAEC and NECO to fully switch to computer testing by 2026. This move covers all exams, both objective and essay papers.
Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa announced the plan during an exam monitoring visit in Bwari. He said the change starts with online objective tests this November. Full CBT follows in May/June 2026.
The government aims to stamp out exam fraud. Paper exams often suffer leaks, result tampering, and impersonation. CBT cuts those risks by securing questions and tracking candidates electronically.
Nigeria’s UTME is already computer-based. JAMB has run CBT for over a decade. It handled 2.2 million candidates online this year without major issues.
WAEC and NECO will begin their online objective tests this November. They will move essay and theory papers online by mid-2026. This phased plan eases the shift and tests systems early.
Over two million candidates registered for the current WAEC and NECO exams in more than 800 centres nationwide. The broad reach tests both technical setup and user readiness.
A special committee will review exam rules, mark schemes, and centre accreditation. Its findings will guide final CBT standards. The report is due next month.
CBT offers instant scoring for objective tests. It slashes marking delays and cuts paper costs. Early feedback helps teachers and students improve quickly.
Rural test centres face power and internet gaps. Officials plan solar back-ups and satellite links to bridge those shortfalls. Training sessions will boost local tech teams.
Some students lack basic computer skills. The ministry will launch free tutorials and mock CBT drills at schools to raise digital literacy.
WAEC, NECO, and JAMB will share resources on test software and security. This joint effort aims to cut costs and standardize protocols.
Education experts praise the move but call for robust training for supervisors and invigilators. Proper tech use is key to fair exams.
Parents and teachers must support the shift. Some view computer tests as daunting. Outreach campaigns will reassure stakeholders and explain benefits.
The ICT ministry will upgrade state-run computer labs. Grants will fund new machines in under-served areas. This boost helps both exam prep and wider digital education.
Prof. Ishaq Oloyede of JAMB warned against false claims about test assignments. All candidates get to pick exam towns. The board pledges strict centre checks.
Experts note that successful CBT roll-out will raise Nigeria’s global education profile. It shows readiness to use tech for quality learning.
Some critics worry about data privacy and digital theft. The ministry assures end-to-end encryption and regular audits to protect candidate records.
Local tech firms stand to gain from CBT contracts. They will supply hardware, software, and support services, boosting the ICT sector.
As Nigeria prepares for full CBT by 2026, schools and students must adapt fast. The shift marks a new era of fair, fast, and secure exams.